• The past, present and future of Defender inspire six new Atlas colours, for those who demand uncompromising quality and individuality

  • Atlas colours are the first to be developed on the new Universal Paint Line facility at Nitra, Slovakia, following additional investment at the plant

  • Mara Red updates the heritage Masai Red, while Pantelleria Blue reimagines Pageant Blue

  • Galway Green and Buckingham Blue are heritage Defender colours making a return in the Atlas line-up

  • New Aira Green and Jenolan Gold are inspired by the Aira Force Waterfall in the Lake District, UK, and the limestone caves of Jenolan, Australia

PRETORIA, SOUTH AFRICA – 10 NOVEMBER 2026: Defender has released a new range of colour options, mixing heritage Defender shades with adventurous new tones inspired by epic and breathtaking landscapes across the world.

From the mountains of Australia to the wilderness of Africa and beyond, the new Atlas colours celebrate Defender’s exploration and adventure DNA.

Available across the line-up and multiple Defender specifications1, including new Defender Vertex, the range features six new colours across three categories. Mara Red and Pantelleria Blue are inspired by former Defender paints, while Galway Green and Buckingham Blue are returning heritage Defender colours. Aira Green and Jenolan Gold are brand new colours.

Defender developed the Atlas colours using a new Universal Paint Line in Nitra, Slovakia, following additional investment at the plant. The robotic painting facility incorporates industry-first technologies to deliver precise colour harmony. Full-vehicle painting capability in-house delivers ultimate colour harmony, using seven-axis overhead rail robots with spray nozzles that change automatically, delivering optimum electrostatic coverage and a flawless finish.

The Universal Paint Line adds an additional step to the production process, ensuring the Atlas colours are among the most durable and robust Defender colours yet and setting a new benchmark for personalised vehicle manufacturing. As with all its paints, Defender tests the Atlas range to withstand four times the industry standard for grit blasting. Engineers submerge the painted panel in water for 72 hours and repeat the cycle.

As standard, Atlas colours pair with a black contrast roof but are available with a white contrast roof option. The colours can be specified with Gloss or Matte Protective Films for a protective, personalised finish and maximum durability. Defender’s Protective Films provide an additional layer of defence against everything from car park scratches to bramble rash, creating a distinctive finish while keeping the vehicle in pristine condition for longer. The wrap also has self-healing properties that use the sun’s UV rays to aid the repair of micro-scratches over time.

The six new colours in the Atlas range add to the existing options available on Defender, including new Namib Orange, which Defender introduced this year, Tasman Blue, Woolstone Green and Carpathian Grey. Defender X, Vertex and OCTA models also have the choice of Patagonia White Matte Wrap, partnered with Fuji White.

Patrick McGillycuddy, Managing Director, Defender, said: “The Atlas colours are the rarest expressions of Defender, created for those who value individuality and authenticity. The range introduces a vibrant and rugged set of new exterior finishes to our clients, offering even greater customisation and choice to an already comprehensive line-up.

“With Aira Green and Jenolan Gold, clients can choose newly created colours to push the boundaries of adventure, while Galway Green, Buckingham Blue, Mara Red, and Pantelleria Blue exude the legacy and heritage of Defender’s globetrotting history.” 

Mara Red

Re-invigorating the heritage Masai Red paint, Mara Red takes its radiant tones from the Maasai Iands in the preserved savannah wilderness of southwest Kenya. Mara Red draws its tone directly from the wild horizons and epic safari lands of southwest Kenya.

Pantelleria Blue

Pantelleria Blue embodies the expansive waves of the Mediterranean where it meets the jagged volcanic terrain of the Italian island of Pantelleria. This shade represents a contemporary take on the classic Pageant Blue, matching the deep tones of the Mediterranean to the ruggedness of modern Defender models.

Galway Green

A return of the heritage Galway Green, taking inspiration from the deep valleys, mountains and lakes of County Galway, Ireland. Galway Green inspires epic expedition through the rugged ridges of Ireland’s picturesque scenery, where immense peaks and rousing views await. 

Buckingham Blue

Buckingham Blue echoes a legacy of Defender’s pursuit of wilderness exploration and is a celebration of enduring design and rugged adventure. Defender previously offered this colour between 2006 and 2013.

Aira Green2

One of the newly created colours for the Atlas Collection, the verdant tone of Aira Green takes its essence from the mossy banks of the Aira Force Waterfall in the Lake District in the UK. Aira Green illustrates Defender’s capability to push beyond boundaries and tackle challenging terrain head on by conquering demanding climbs and waterfall descents.

Jenolan Gold2

The other new exterior colour, Jenolan Gold imbues the spirit of the ancient rock formations found in the world-renowned golden limestone caves of Jenolan under Australia’s Blue Mountains. Its golden colour draws directly on these formidable rock formations, matching the tough luxury and durability of Defender.